Cheesy and herby, this tree-shaped appetizer is a perfect compliment to your holiday dinner! It’s a beautiful centerpiece on your table, easy to make, and even easier to pull apart and eat. Give this appetizer a try this holiday season!
Serve with
Marinara sauce
The Spaghetti Sauce
Substitutions + Variations
Cheese – Substitute the mozzarella cheese with another type of cheese, or skip it altogether!
Herbs – Any herbs or flavors can be used. Replace the parsley with garlic powder for a more Italian tasting “tree” or use a sharper cheese (like cheddar) for a stronger flavor.
Storage
If you are bringing this to a friend or family member’s home, roll and shape the dough, and bake at the final destination for a fresher and warmer dish.
Store in an airtight container and refrigerate (especially if there’s cheese!).
Cheesy Pull Apart Christmas Tree Bread
Ingredients
- 1 16 ounces refrigerated pizza dough
- 6 mozzarella sticks
- ¼ cup melted butter
- ½ cup grated parmesan
- 1 tablespoon basil thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon parsley chopped
- Marinara sauce for serving
Egg Wash
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 450° F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Cut mozzarella sticks into 1 inch pieces and set aside.
- On a floured surface, stretch and roll the pizza dough into a long rectangle, and cut into 2 inch squares. (Depending on the tree size, you’ll need about 25 pieces).
- Wrap a dough square around each piece of mozzarella, forming a tightly sealed ball. Place the balls seam-side down on the baking sheet in a tree shape (make sure they’re touching!). Brush the egg wash on the dough balls and bake until golden, about 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile whisk together the melted butter, parmesan, and herbs. Brush on the baked tree. Serve warm with marinara for dipping.
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